Coupon 101

Where do I get coupons?

There are many resources available to couponers. There is no reason we should not be able to save money. It’s all trial and error so with time, you will figure out what works best for you. There are a lot of ways to get coupons.

Newspapers & Magazines

The easiest way to get coupons would be a newspaper subscription. It’s delivered right to your door, and you can browse all the circulars and decide which sales to take advantage of. You can also ask neighbors, friends, relatives to save the coupons they don’t use.

Some magazines also have coupons inside. The most popular one is All You magazine found at Wal-Mart. It’s usually around $2.49 per issue.

Internet

If you have the time and resources, you can also print coupons online. Many websites for products you usually buy have coupons you can print once you sign up.

You can sign up for a free Facebook account. Many companies have coupons available when you “Like” them on Facebook.

If you have a smartphone, you can sign up for mobile coupons and offers from different stores.

Target: Sign up by texting OFFERS to 827438. You can use Target coupons in conjunction with manufacturers’ coupons for bigger savings.

Walgreens:& CVS both have apps for iPhone and Android available for download.

SavingStar is a free, digital coupon service. You can link your store loyalty cards to your SavingStar account. Once you add the available coupons to your account, you can redeem them in the store. The amount paid will not change. The value of the coupon will be added to your SavingStar account and can be redeemed once you reach $5. You can then choose to be paid either through PayPal, bank deposit or Amazon gift card.

How do I organize my coupons?

In the beginning, I only clipped coupons for things I knew I would use. Now, I keep every coupon I get. I’m more organized so it’s easier to flip through them even when I’m in a rush.

Here is what you’ll need:

· A 3 ring binder with a zipper. The best time to buy these is after the back to school sales. Make sure to invest in a good binder so it doesn’t fall apart and then have to spend more money replacing it.

· Baseball card inserts. Start small at first and just add as you need them. Target has these by the registers and Pokémon cards for $4.99 for a pack of 35. You can also contact hobby shops or search on eBay.

· Scissors. Again, these are at a better price during back to school sales. In the meantime, if you have children, you can “borrow” theirs.

· Calculator. Any calculator will do.

· Pen and small notepad.

· Small zipper pencil pouch. This is to keep your couponing supplies in. (pen, pencils, calculator, and scissors). There is nothing worse than being ready to clip and not being able to find your scissors.

· Divider tabs.You can set up your tabs any way you want. The goal is to make it easy for you to find everything when you need it.